The Whole of My World

An unputdownable novel for anyone who’s ever loved or lost, drawn a line between then and now, or kept a secret that wouldn’t stay hidden . . .

An unputdownable novel for anyone who’s ever loved or lost, drawn a line between then and now, or kept a secret that wouldn’t stay hidden . . .

'Today I am free. No guilt for who’s missing, what’s been left behind. My face aches from smiling in the wind and my voice rasps from all the screaming, and I know that it’s been forever since I’ve felt so completely alive.'

Desperate to escape her grieving father and harbouring her own terrible secret, Shelley disappears into the intoxicating world of Aussie Rules football. Joining a motley crew of footy tragics – and, best of all, making friends with one of the star players – Shelley finds somewhere to belong. Finally she’s winning.

So why don’t her friends get it? Josh, who she’s known all her life, but who she can barely look at anymore because of the memories of that fateful day. Tara, whose cold silences Shelley can’t understand. Everyone thinks there’s something more going on between Shelley and Mick. But there isn’t – is there?

When the whole of your world is football, sometimes life gets lost between goals.

Reviews

“
This book is perfect for teenage girls who love AFL and those who have done something seriously bad and never told a soul . . . Verdict: absolutely amazing.
”

Matilda Murrihy, age 14, Herald Sun

“
The Whole of My World is a poignant coming-of-age tale with a fresh, original angle. No matter what your feelings are about AFL, this novel is bound to have you cheering by the end.
”

Carody Culver, Books+Publishing

“
I connected really deeply with the characters and I just couldn’t stop reading. It has a uniquely intriguing plot and characters that pull you in and leave you hanging for more. You don’t need to be a footy fan to love this, it’s a book everyone can relate to.
”

Karis, age 15, Random House Book Buddies

“
Football is not my thing. I've never chosen a team, known the terms or even seen more than one game, but that didn't matter. This book let me in and eased me into the sport . . . I loved the humour, the authentic voice and, most of all, the diverse range of characters . . . An amazing read and well worth its heart in gold.
”

Tash, age 16, Random House Book Buddies

“
The Whole of My World is an amazing read that keeps you turning the pages to find out what happens next. I would highly recommend it for anyone who loves a great story and also has a passion for football!
”

Josey, age 15, Random House Book Buddies

“
I loved the fact that it was Australian and particularly that it was set in Melbourne. I'm not a football fan by anyone's definition, but The Whole of my World held my attention right from the beginning, with Hayes' simple hints towards the loneliness and struggles that are part of being a teenager encompassed perfectly.
”

Alexandra, age 18, Random House Book Buddies

“
Using football as the basis of the book was a good idea because it interested me and I'm sure others will be interested too . . . I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
”

Thomas, age 15, Random House Book Buddies

“
My favourite thing about this book is the fact it is about a GIRL who loves FOOTBALL! . . . Hayes does a wonderful job of exploring the power of grief, the weight of secrets and lies and the importance of identity and friendship. Hayes acknowledges the power of escapism and how important a passion can be when dealing with adversity. For so many people, football (or any sport for that matter) is a way of leaving behind the stresses of life and focussing on a brighter light! On every page, Hayes’ passion shines through; I can almost imagine her 15-year-old self. The excitement and enthusiasm radiates from every word she writes! Game on!
”